Forest bounty

When Xiao arrived, NGOs were already working with local communities. Over time, a full economic chain of ecological transition has developed. The reserve supports over 1,000 residents in surrounding buffer areas. Many once relied on hunting, foraging bamboo shoots, and wild harvesting — "living off the mountain".

Through targeted support, that has shifted. Villagers are trained as rangers and wildlife instructors and former hunters now patrol forests. Traditional beekeeping produces premium honey as the reserve provides designated pesticide-free zones and sales channels.

Also, crops vulnerable to wildlife damage — corn and rapeseed — have been replaced with species animals avoid, such as peonies and wasabi, which have steady sales. "It's a chain. Beekeeping, homestays, natural education. As the environment improves, incomes improve," she said.

Psychological adjustment is just as important as compensation to the locals, according to Xiao. "At first, people resisted. Now they fully support protection; that transformation took decades," she said.

In October 2025, the Tangjiahe National Nature Reserve, in partnership with Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo in Jiangsu province, opened an exhibition, which allowed the public to better understand the reserve's concept and its biodiversity efforts, as well as the condition of wild animals in their natural habitats.

Xiao was also invited to give a lecture about the reserve as part of the zoo's Nature Life Carnival: International Sharing on Sustainable Development initiative.

In its third year, the initiative invited international guests and zoos to talk about issues including zoo exhibition design, conservation efforts occurring outside of natural habitats, and urban biodiversity conservation.

Shen Zhijun, head of Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo, said the zoo's role is much more than just a place to see animals.

"It's a living testament to the power of connection, collaboration, and sustainability in wildlife conservation," he said. "As the zoo continues to inspire and educate, it is clear that the institution's work is not only about preserving species but also about fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy for the planet's most vulnerable creatures."

With more than 6 million visitors annually, Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo is one of the most popular zoos in China and home to around 3,000 animals and 260 species.

"Our core goal has always been to bridge the gap between nature conservation and the daily lives of people," Shen added. "By doing so, we hope to raise awareness about wildlife protection, showing visitors that protecting wild animals and their habitats is something they can relate to in their everyday lives."

Shen said zoo workers went to the Tangjiahe National Nature Reserve and were impressed by the staff's conservation efforts and how they encouraged local villagers to engage in beekeeping. "It not only helps preserve biodiversity but also provides an additional source of income for the community," said Shen.

The Tangjiahe exhibit featured a striking stone sculpture at the entrance, replicating the reserve's official emblem. Cutting-edge digital technologies, including AI and virtual reality, allowed visitors to experience rare species of animals from Tangjiahe as if they were standing in their natural habitat.

"What we want is to spark curiosity and respect for wildlife," said Shen. "We want to inspire people to visit Tangjiahe and see firsthand the wild habitats where these animals live."